Professor John A Parkinson has held an academic position at Bangor University since 2004, was appointed Head of School in October 2013, and Dean for the College of Human Sciences in 2020. He completed his BSc in Durham and PhD in Cambridge and is a psychologist and neuroscientist. His research expertise is in behavioural psychology, with a focus on positive psychology and the promotion of optimal functioning. John is also Director of the Wales Centre for Behaviour Change, based at Bangor University.

Steve has been involved in community justice since 1974, having worked for the Probation Service in England and Wales from practitioner through to Deputy Chief Officer (North Wales Probation) prior to his retirement in 2011. Steve is driven by the desire to mobilise the delivery of meaningful services for the disadvantaged and dispossessed in our communities in the endeavour to realise individual potential, transform lives and to make a difference for individuals and communities.

Gareth Matthews has worked in the welfare to work sector for over 40 years. Gareth is a Director with Itec Training Solutions Ltd. Gareth was previously Director for Welfare Services, Serco (2009 – 2015) and an Executive Director with Working Links (2000-2007), with responsibility for Wales, West Midlands and the South West. Gareth started his career with Jobcentre Plus, holding several senior roles during his 27-year service.

Edith has over 40 years’ management experience, with senior roles in Jobcentre Plus including staff recruitment, partnerships and financial management. Edith’s responsibilities have included helping employers with recruitment and redundancy issues, and assisting job-seeking customers – particularly those with health issues – to access and sustain employment. Edith is a qualified mentor and training officer, and since her official retirement continues to work as a finance officer for a small legal firm.

Eirlys Evans has a wealth of experience in business support and management. She was previously Chief Executive of the Denbighshire Enterprise Agency, for whom she worked for nearly 30 years, and has run her own business. Eirlys has a robust understanding of the needs of local businesses, and places a strong value on networking and collaboration as a way to secure the best possible value for money for the customer.

Julia Cain has extensive experience in the welfare to work sector. She has been involved with RCS since its inception in 2007, working most recently as the company’s Partnerships Manager, brokering and maintaining effective relationships across key stakeholders in health and community. She was previously employed by Working Links and was a trustee of the Links Foundation for several years. Over the years, Julia’s passion and commitment has contributed to the development of many bespoke, innovative solutions to issues of unemployment and worklessness. Since her retirement in 2021, Julia maintains her desire to assist people to be their best in work, and to continue making a difference to people’s lives.